BUCKEYE – A year after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, operators of Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station said Friday that events in Japan prompted new initiatives to prepare for emergencies.
“We’re adamant that we’re going to take a safe industry and make it even safer by applying those lessons learned,” said Randy Edington, executive vice president and chief nuclear officer of Arizona Public Service.

A new solar power project is planned near the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station west of Phoenix. KTAR-FM reports the Arlington Valley Solar Energy 2 project will generate an estimated 127 megawatts of power when commercial operations start. That's enough power to supply 25,400 homes.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission report said more employees at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station need regular training on the plant’s Severe Accident Mitigation Guidelines, and that training exercises are rare.

When this reactor at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is operating, no one is allowed into this viewing area overlooking its core.
But when Unit 2′s reactor is having its fuel rods replaced, plant officials are using the opportunity to show how Palo Verde is different from the Japanese nuclear power plant that was leaking radiation after a devastating earthquake and tsunami.

In the event of an emergency at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, plant officials and government leaders will now have access to a $13.5 million center that will help them respond and share information with the public.